What causes a burning sensation in the throat?

Dec 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lu Cheng

Introduction

The throat refers to the pharynx. A burning sensation in the throat may be caused by various factors such as dietary irritation, dry environment, pharyngitis, reflux pharyngitis, and tonsillitis. To prevent this symptom, it is recommended to avoid spicy, greasy, and excessively hot foods, and to maintain a balanced diet in daily life. Keep the environment humidified by using a humidifier to maintain moist indoor air and prevent throat dryness.

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. A burning sensation in the throat may be caused by various factors such as dietary irritation, dry environment, pharyngitis, reflux laryngitis, and tonsillitis. If you experience any discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Dietary Irritation

Consuming spicy, greasy, or excessively hot foods can directly irritate the pharyngeal mucosa. Substances such as capsaicin, oils, or high temperatures in these foods may cause a burning sensation in the throat. It is advisable to avoid or reduce the intake of spicy and greasy foods in daily diet. Food should be consumed at moderate temperatures to avoid thermal injury to the throat.

2. Dry Environment

Remaining in a dry environment for extended periods can cause the pharyngeal mucosa to lose moisture, leading to dryness and sensitivity, which may result in a burning sensation. Keeping indoor air humidified using a humidifier and drinking plenty of water can help maintain throat moisture.

3. Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections, although it may also result from environmental irritants such as smoke and dust. Inflammation leads to congestion and swelling of the pharyngeal mucosa, causing a burning sensation. Symptoms may include sore throat, dryness, and a foreign body sensation. Treatment may include medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid (a traditional Chinese medicine), and Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, as recommended by a physician.

4. Reflux Laryngitis

Reflux laryngitis may occur when stomach acid flows back into the throat area, irritating the pharyngeal mucosa. The acidic components in gastric juice can erode the mucosa, resulting in a burning sensation. Additional symptoms may include hoarseness and coughing. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Hydrotalcite Chewable Tablets, and Domperidone Tablets.

5. Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is primarily caused by bacterial infections, with streptococcal infection being the most common. Symptoms include swollen, congested tonsils with purulent discharge, which can cause a burning sensation in the throat. Accompanying symptoms may include high fever, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment may involve medications such as Cefradine Capsules, Honeysuckle Granules, and Paracetamol Tablets, as directed by a physician.

To help prevent this symptom, it is recommended to avoid spicy, greasy, and hot foods in daily life and maintain a balanced diet. Keep the environment adequately humidified using a humidifier to maintain moist air and prevent throat dryness.

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Will my voice return to normal after a cold causes hoarseness?

In general, whether hoarseness caused by a cold can recover depends on the specific situation. Hoarseness due to mild mucosal congestion usually resolves completely; however, if the vocal cords suffer severe damage or pathological changes, recovery becomes more difficult. Daily care should include adequate vocal rest, avoiding loud talking or singing. Drinking plenty of warm water helps keep the throat moist, while spicy or excessively hot foods should be avoided to prevent irritation.

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Can people with bronchitis and cough eat eggs?

In general, patients with tracheitis and cough can usually consume eggs if they are not allergic to them; however, those with a history of egg allergy must absolutely avoid eggs. During tracheitis with cough, the diet should be light and nutritionally balanced, and drinking plenty of warm water helps keep the throat moist. It is also important to ensure indoor ventilation, avoid exposure to irritants such as dust and smoke, reduce coughing episodes, and promote recovery.